Other than Miami, the City of Barcelona is the only other place whose architecture has enchanted me so much. I became fascinated with cool designs and architecture after I saw the work of Karim Rashid (with whom I also had the privilege of meeting!).

I arrived in the City from Madrid to meet up with the family in order to commence our first cruise journey departing from the Port of Barcelona.

I highly recommend taking the RENFE trains when traveling across cities and provinces in Spain. Indeed, the trains are not cheap but it is extremely fast service and the quality of the service is excellent. I compiled a short video to show you what you can expect inside!

Tip: Students can buy Eurail pass for several trips that will indeed save a lot of money.

Click on the video image to view the video on youtube

Barcelona has some of the most exciting architecture in the world. It combines a blend of both modern style with traditional Catalan style.

Barcelona City Architecture

Catalonia Architecture in Barcelona City

One of the most prolific and ingenious architects and designers of the Catalan style was Antoni Gaudi. Some of these images are of his work, several of which are declared UNESCO World Heritage sites.

La Pedrera | Casa Milà | Gaudí Barcelona

La Sagrada Família Barcelona – Gaudi Architecture

The construction of the La Sagrada Familia has been ongoing for decades now. That was the intention of Gaudi – a piece of art that takes infinity to complete! Gaudi took inspiration from various sources and regions. The motifs on the building below are inspired by Chinese design; especially the Dragon.

Gaudi Architecture in Barcelona

Traditional Catalan architecture is very colorful and rambunctious.

Historical Buildings of Barcelona

Barcelona Olympics Stadium

The Arc de Triomf Barcelona

Pablo Picasso is another famous artist/painter from the region. A museum dedicated to his work is must see in Barcelona. It is located in the Gothic centre close to the Las Ramblas area in the City.

Picasso Museum

The Chocolate Museum is another highly recommended stop if you are traveling with children.

Museum of Chocolate (Museu de la Xocolata)

Chocolate display inside Museum of Chocolate (Museu de la Xocolata)

The Gothic quarter is spectacular to walk through at night. It will take you back to a historic medieval time period with narrow alleys, street opera performances, merchants, and unique architecture.

Gothic Quarter Barcelona by night

Gothic Quarter Barcelona by night

Barceloneta is a modern strip in the City that largely reminds one of Miami Beach’s infamous Ocean Drive. The building designs here are modern but with nothing of the bland typical sort you see in North American cities – especially the crap that abounds Toronto residential buildings.

Modern Architecture Building in Barcelona

Modern Architecture Building in Barcelona

Modern Architecture Building in Barcelona

Modern Architecture Building in Barcelona

Modern Architecture Building in Barcelona

Barceloneta

The spectacular port of Barcelona is one of the largest and most prolific tourist oriented ports in the world. This is the commencement point for most of the major cruise lines that do the Europe or Mediterranean segment.

Barcelona Port

My personal suggestion for accomodation when traveling with family or groups of three or more is to rent out from one of several apartment suites. Several reasons for this.

Savings of over 60% from traditional hotel accomodation

Savings on food and dining by preparing fresh cooked meals

Ability to stay at unique residential buildings like the Catalanonians

Design and art is abundant everywhere in the City, even at budget hotels. I stayed at Hotel Solvesa Barcelona, a boutique budget hotel, close to the airport. I was astounded to find local artwork throughout the design of the hotel. I loved this place.

Larkycanuck is the pseudonym for the spirited, spontaneous and zestful Canadian. The Blog is focused on showcasing budget adventure travels for working families. Larkycanuck has traveled to over 15 countries, 38 cities in 10 years. He has never quit a job to do this. He travels with his wife and on some trips with the house rabbit (Pepper).

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Comments (4)

Really enjoyed reading your post on Barcelona. The architecture is incredible and your photographs did justice to their beautiful and unusual curves. I really got a good sense of the experience and I love the way you do your blog. I replied here because I am still not sure about my comments reaching you when I comment in the e-mail. When I press comment it immediately goes to my blog on wordpress so I have to write the comment again, In any event, you have this!

Wow, you’re right, the city itself is filled with beautifully designed buildings and landscapes! I have yet to travel abroad but when I do, Barcelona will have to be one of the first places I go! Thank you!